Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Today I took C out for a quick jaunt on the jogging path. We are planning on the Trail Ride at the Bare Bones Ride in three weeks and I wanted to get in some jogging during our ride today.

C was well-behaved, he would totally walk out nicely on a loose rein. But when I would ask him for a nice relaxed trot he would take off like a Bat Outta Hell in this awful upside down pulling trot. Ugh. Pulling???
Where did that come from? He's usually quite light in the bridle.

I just kept stopping him, backing him, making him move laterally across the path and finally did a lot of walking on the last two miles back to the trailer.

When we got to the trailer I made him canter in big circles in the sand- he was still wound but managed to contain himself and build up quite a lather.

It was an odd, slightly disconcerting ride but I never felt out of control or anything. We had a few carrots, a good brushing and fresh fly spray before turning him back out with Mom and Brother.

Sunday, August 28, 2011

I have been having such fun riding Cartman out on our trails that I haven't even been taking new pictures, just enjoying the rides!

Cartman's leg is almost, almost healed all the way. I am still putting a little Neosporin on it, hoping to totally avoid a scar.

We've been climbing hills, crossing streams, jumping logs, and he's really sure footed! Whew! That's a real blessing to me. I really wanted a horse that I could trust to find a good path along the trail without me micro-managing.

I'm trying to do some arena-type work once a week out in the field (while its dry!) we're practicing bending, doing circles (no they aren't really round yet :), and moving off the leg. I have a lead on a possible dressage instructor for some winter lessons.

Other than that I've starting to get pretty busy at work, so time may be limited for a while. Hope everyone else is enjoying the late summer weather!

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

I haven't rirdden in over a week!!! Cartman's leg is almost healed up, so as soon as we get back in town on Sunday we'll be back at it.

Last week I tried to take Dazzby out to do some trail clearing. She was OK for about 1/2 hour and then became very agitated. Tail swishing, head wringing, and basically being pissy. I was riding with Flo and P who have both ridden with Dazz before, we all agreed- she was not herself. I can only conclude that she is still in some pain when asked to work. We are continuing on with the Steadfast supplements and I will give her another try at a later date. She is not "lame", but just isn't her old self right now.

Todd and I have decided that if we want to enjoy some hot August nights we're going to have to go Reno- its still sweatshirt and jeans weather in the mold state. So, we are off Thursday morning and will return Sunday night. Wish me luck, if we hit the big one at the casino I will be sending for my horses!